What we are witnessing is not patriotic —it is a series of unnecessary and harmful provocations that run counter to the spirit of the European Union.
It is natural for every country to take pride in its history, language, symbols, and traditions. That cultural richness is a cornerstone of Europe’s diversity and shared identity. But historical facts are clear—and so are their often painful consequences. Precisely because of this, at a time when Europe is increasingly confronted with dangerous nationalist tendencies, historical distortion, and divisive rhetoric, we must demonstrate greater political maturity and responsibility.
There is no place in Europe for one-sided provocations that deepen mistrust and sow division within the European community.
This is not merely a matter of symbolism. The impact is most acutely felt by the Slovene minority in Austria, which has long—and rightfully—voiced concern about its increasingly precarious position.
We believe that such actions by certain Austrian politicians represent a step backward. And we are convinced there are better, more constructive ways to express one’s patriotism.
Europe cannot—and must not—become an arena for competing, aggressive interpretations of the past. The European project is built on cooperation, mutual respect, and shared responsibility. Provocations that serve narrow domestic political interests at the expense of our common European future have no place in the Union—a Union founded precisely to prevent territorial ambitions and hostile nationalism from ever taking root again.
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